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Springfield Inches Closer To Joining GIC |
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JULY 06 - With state and local officials struggling to find ways to erase Springfield’s remaining $8 million deficit, a plan is moving forward that would bring all city retirees and employees under the state-run Group Insurance Commission (GIC).
Under the control of a state-run Financial Control Board since 2004, Springfield has painfully found ways to largely get out from under the $50 million budget shortfall that once existed. A number of cuts to the city’s healthcare plans have already been implemented.
As of press time, retirees, unions and city officials were working towards an agreement that would place all 8,600 Springfield retirees and employees under the GIC. GIC officials have approved emergency regulations to assist the process.
According to state officials, the city can save some $10 million a year by joining the state insurance plan. If an agreement is reached by September, Springfield retirees and employees could be enrolled under the GIC by January 1, 2007.
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Healthcare 
